Question
i want to clip a branch from my lilac tree and give to a friend.  when should i do it and how do i proceed.  i also have a purple flowering tree, from florida, whose name i don't know but i simply soaked in water for awhile and planted when i moved to georgia.  would appreciate your input.  thank you
  bob seamans, roswell, GA

Answer
Bob, you can keep in in water or pot it. Personally, I would pot the cutting and explain to your friend how to care for it.

Simply cut a tender shoot that is at least six inches long.  Remove the lower sets of leaves.  Dip the cutting in a rooting compound. You can purchase this product at any garden center.  Stick the cutting one inch into a good potting mix.  Be sure to thoroughly wet the soil prior to planting.

Finally, cover the pot with a clear piece of lightweight plastic.  Place the pot in indirect sunlight on an east window seal or under fluorescent lighting.  After two weeks, check to see if the plant has rooted by slightly pulling on the stem.  If you feel resistance, remove the plastic covering and be sure to keep the soil moist.  The plant should then be treated as any other seedling.

Good luck, and please write again if I can ever be of assistance.


Regards,


Mike